Does Coffee Cause Acne? What Science Says About Caffeine and Breakouts

Article at a Glance:

Coffee itself rarely causes acne. How much you drink and what you add in your cup matters most.
Sugar, dairy and processed creamers often contribute more to breakouts than black coffee.
Small changes like choosing quality coffee, limiting intake and hydrating can support your skin.

If you’ve ever looked in the mirror after your morning brew and wondered, “does coffee cause acne?” you’re not alone. Many people worry that their daily cup might trigger breakouts, especially if they already deal with sensitive or acne-prone skin. The link between coffee and acne is a common concern, but it’s not as simple as it sounds.

Here’s the good news: Coffee itself probably isn’t to blame. But how your body reacts to caffeine and what you add to your coffee can make a difference. This article explores the science behind coffee and acne, how caffeine affects hormones and skin and how ingredients like dairy or added sugar may play a bigger role. You’ll also get simple ways to enjoy your coffee while supporting clearer skin.

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Where the Coffee-Acne Misconception Comes From

The idea that coffee causes acne has been around for a long time. But where does it come from? A few common concerns link coffee and breakouts, like how caffeine affects hormones, stress and sleep.

Some research shows that caffeine may raise cortisol levels.[1] High cortisol can trigger skin oil production, which may clog pores.[2] For people already prone to acne, this might make breakouts worse.

Drinking a lot of coffee, especially later in the day, can disrupt your sleep cycle.[3] Poor sleep raises stress hormones (cortisol, again) and can weaken your skin’s ability to repair itself overnight.[4] This may contribute to skin flare-ups.

And don’t forget what’s in your cup. Sugar, dairy and artificial additives in creamers or flavored drinks may affect skin more than the coffee itself. These ingredients can spike blood sugar and disrupt hormones that support clear skin.[5]

Next, let’s look at what science says about how caffeine and coffee actually affect acne.

What the Science Really Says

There’s no simple answer to whether coffee causes acne. Research shows mixed results, and your skin’s response depends on several factors. These include how much coffee you drink, what you add to it, and how your body reacts to stress and hormones.

As mentioned earlier, high caffeine consumption has been linked to increased cortisol, which may play a role in oil production. On the other hand, coffee is more than just caffeine. It also contains antioxidants and polyphenols, which may help your body manage oxidative stress and support skin health.[6]

What you put in your coffee also matters. Studies show that high glycemic index and glycemic load diets are positively associated with acne development and severity.[7] That means adding sugar or sweetened syrups to your coffee could contribute to a higher overall glycemic load.

The connection between dairy and acne is less clear. Some studies suggest a possible link,[8] but results vary depending on factors like sex, skin attributes and dietary patterns.[9] Black coffee, without added sugar or dairy, may be a better option if you have acne-prone skin.

In short, coffee alone is not as likely to cause breakouts. Paying attention to your full routine can help you understand what really affects your skin.

The Real Culprits: Add-Ins, Hormones & Habits

If coffee isn’t the main cause of acne, what is?

If your skin flares up after coffee, the drink itself might not be the issue. Look closer at what else is happening alongside your daily cup.

First, take a look at your add-ins like sweetened creamers and flavored syrups. These ingredients may influence insulin and androgen activity,[10] which play a role in skin oil production.[11] Many popular options also contain artificial flavors, preservatives or low-quality oils. Swapping them for cleaner alternatives can be a simple upgrade for your daily cup that’s better for your overall health.

Hormones matter, too. Caffeine may nudge up cortisol, especially when paired with poor sleep, high stress or skipped meals. That spike in stress hormones may increase skin oil output, setting the stage for breakouts.

Then there’s your overall routine. Skimping on your daily water intake or relying on caffeine instead of food can create a ripple effect. Think: higher stress, lower energy, disrupted skin repair, all of which may show up on your face.

How to Enjoy Coffee Without Wrecking Your Skin

You don’t have to give up coffee to support clear skin. Try these simple changes instead:

Skip the Sugar

Try new ways to flavor your coffee. Use cinnamon, vanilla, cardamom or natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit extract. You can even try adding fresh mint to your pour-over coffee routine.

Choose Your Creamer Carefully

Many processed creamers contain unhealthy additives that don’t contribute to skin health. Try grass-fed butter, MCT oil or non-dairy options without gums or fillers. Choosing a better-for-you creamer can do more than just avoid harm, it can add nutrition to your cup. Ingredients like MCT oil may support energy and metabolism,[12] while grass-fed butter provides fat-soluble vitamins like A and K2 that help maintain skin integrity and cellular health.[13][14]

Stay Hydrated

Don’t just sip coffee all day. Make sure you’re drinking water, too. Aim for consistent hydration throughout the day to give your skin what it needs to stay clear and resilient. Water plays a key role in keeping your skin healthy. It helps support the skin barrier, which protects against dryness, irritation and breakouts.[15] Hydration also supports circulation, which carries nutrients to your skin and helps flush out waste.[16]

Limit How Much You Drink

Does caffeine cause acne? Not necessarily, but it can impact your skin by interfering with sleep, a critical time for skin repair. Drinking too much, especially later in the day, may delay your ability to fall asleep or it may reduce sleep quality. Aim for a caffeine routine that supports restful nights and gives your skin time to recover.

Pick High-Quality Beans

Not all coffee is created equal. Low-quality beans may contain contaminants like mold toxins[17] or pesticide residues,[18] which could work against your overall health. Choosing clean, lab-tested coffee helps reduce your exposure to these unwanted compounds and ensures you’re getting the most from your brew. A high-quality product also tends to taste better and feel better in your body, especially if you drink it daily.

With a few small changes, you can enjoy your brew and support your skin at the same time.

When to Talk to a Dermatologist

If your breakouts persist despite changes to your coffee or diet, it’s time to seek professional help. Acne can result from complex hormonal or dietary issues that need personalized care. A dermatologist can identify underlying causes and recommend treatments tailored to your skin’s needs. Remember, coffee might only be a small part of the bigger picture.

Coffee Isn’t the Enemy

Coffee itself may not cause acne. The way and timing of your coffee habits may play a much bigger role in how it affects your skin. Drinking coffee in moderation and avoiding sugary or processed add-ins may help you enjoy your cup without worry. Choosing functional coffee blends with clean, supportive ingredients may support your skin and overall health.

Some enhanced coffees go beyond caffeine to support whole-body function, including systems that impact skin. For example, The Maximizer™ contains prebiotics and slippery elm bark, which support gut health.[19] A healthy gut plays a key role in nutrient absorption and skin clarity.[20] The Enlightener™ includes ginseng an ingredient that may help to fight oxidative stress,[21] designed specifically for skincare, their functional ingredients may contribute to a healthier internal environment that reflects on your skin.

Remember, coffee can be part of a healthy routine that fuels your energy and focus while supporting your body’s needs. The key is balance and paying attention to how your body reacts. Explore recipes and products designed to support wellness, not sabotage it, and enjoy your coffee as a positive part of your day.

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